Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Eye Conditions on December 30, 2017
If you have a painful or annoying bump in or along or eyelid, you might have a stye or chalazion. These lumps are rarely serious but can be connected to blepharitis, a condition that creates inflammation of the eyelids. Let’s discuss the differences between styes and chalazia to help you determine if you have either.
A stye is the result of an infection that creates a painful red lump on the edge of the eyelid. If a stye develops inside of the eyelid, it is referred to as a hordeolum. A chalazion is a bump inside of the eyelid that may look like a stye, but is typically larger and might not hurt.
The cause of Styes vs. Chalazia
Styes: Styes are the consequence of bacteria buildup. Typically, bacteria will grow in the eyelash follicle or one of the miniscule oil glands on the interior of the eyelid. A chalazion is created when an oil gland in the eyelid is blocked. If a hordeoleum doesn’t heal, it can become a chalazion.
The symptoms of Styes vs. Chalazia
A stye can look like a pimple on the edge of the eyelid. As it grows, the lid will become tender and swollen, causing the eye to water. Typically, styes will grow for three days then drain and will completely heal in about one week.
A chalazion begins as a cyst under the eyelid skin. They aren’t usually painful but can grow large enough to obscure your vision. Chalazia will grow more slowly than styes and can spread inflammation to the surrounding area. Chalazia heal within a few months with no treatment.
The treatment of Styes vs. Chalazia
If you have stye or chalazion, at home remedies will typically do the trick.
- Press a warm cloth against the infected area for 5-10 minutes, 3-6 times per day.
- Get an over the counter treatment.
- Let the chalazion or stye open and heal on its own.
- Do not wear contact lenses or makeup until the infected area is healed.
Arrange a consultation
If you think you have a stye or chalazion and at home, remedies are not working, arrange a consultation with Aker Kasten Eye Center. You can reach our team at (561) 338-7722. Don’t hesitate to call us today!